Psoriasis May Increase Risk of Atherosclerosis

Reza Robati, MD Associate Professor of Dermatology Deputy editor, Iranian Journal of Dermatology Skin Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran, IranMedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Reza Robati, MD
Associate Professor of Dermatology
Deputy editor, Iranian Journal of Dermatology
Skin Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
Tehran, Iran

Medical Research: What are the main findings of the study?

Dr. Robati: In our study, increased levels of serum leptin and resistin and increased intima-media wall thickness of common carotid artery were observed in 60 psoriasis patients in comparison with 60 healthy controls. Moreover, we found positive correlation between these variables in psoriasis patients.

Medical Research: Were any of the findings unexpected?

Dr. Robati: Although there were some reports of these finding in the previous assays but our study is distinctive to assess all these variables together and evaluate their correlation as well.

Medical Research: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?

Dr. Robati: Psoriasis might be an independent risk factor of atherosclerosis. Serum leptin or resistin could be used as biomarkers of subclinical atherosclerosis along with carotid artery ultrasound assessment in these patients.

Medical Research: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Dr. Robati: Multicenter studies with more biomarkers such as adipokine or adiponectin could be more helpful to elucidate the association of psoriasis with cardiovascular event more definitely.

Citation:

Increased serum leptin and resistin levels and increased carotid intima-media wall thickness in patients with psoriasis: Is psoriasis associated with atherosclerosis?
Robati, Reza M. et al.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

 

Last Updated on July 23, 2014 by Marie Benz MD FAAD